A popular Norwich museum reopened on Saturday after a spate of bad luck forced it to close for three weeks.

The Inspire Discovery Centre, based in St Michael's Church, Oak Street, was the victim of two burglaries and a water leak which destroyed its office towards the end of last year.

Assistant manager Belinda Parker said: 'After we recovered from the burglaries we came in to find a water leak which had ruined almost everything in the office such as computers, desk chairs and even our stationery and envelopes.'

Staff worked hard to reopen the science centre on Saturday and welcomed families, friends and parties.

Ms Parker said: 'The staff have been brilliant. Everyone here is so passionate about making the centre a success, nothing will stop us.'

'This year will be an exciting one for us. We will hold events in the holidays and continue our hard work in schools throughout the year. It is great to be open again and that we have noise and children and people having fun; it is how it should be and it is how we like to see it.

'We are fortunate that we have lovely supporters, both companies and individuals.'

The museum has a range of scientific exhibits which children can engage all their senses in.

Ms Parker said: 'We are the only hands-on science centre in East Anglia. It is friendly and safe. We have had people visit from all over the world, it is amazing that people come from afar.

'What started out as a few exhibits has grown into something big. We hold workshops, events, parties and visit schools.'

William LeQuesne, 35, a marine biologist from Beccles, visited the centre with his three children Poppy, six, Felix, four and Arlo, one.

Mr LeQuesne said: 'We like it because it is hands-on. It is educational and the children all enjoy and engage in it, there is something for all ages. Poppy enjoys the sound tubes and Felix's favourite is the catapult.'

Friends Chelsea Lawrence, 10, and Bronte Temple, nine, from Lowestoft, also visited the centre on Saturday and enjoyed playing with the whispering satellites, an exhibit which demonstrates how sound travels.

Bronte's dad, Howard Temple, 33, said: 'It is absolutely brilliant. We come here for a couple of hours while my wife is shopping – everyone is happy. The children really enjoy it.'

For opening times visit www.inspirediscoverycentre.com or call 01603 612612.